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Behind the wheelJVB transports the VIPs Cuban residents add a little spice to the GTMO community Volume 15, Issue 27

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Free! The JTF Chaplains Office has over 3000 FREE Christmas Cards. Pick up as many as you like at the Camp America Post Office or at the chaplains office. of the week A travelers dream discussed at GTMO Lee Abbamonte, the youngest American to travel to all United Nations countries, will present his tales from the trails Dec. 9, at 6 p.m., at the Windjammer. Abbamonte aims to become the youngest person to complete the Travelers Century Club, and will talk about his journey through the 193 U.N. sovereign nations. Event is free and open to the public. Dashing through the bay In a one-man kayak, not a sleigh, you can dash through the bay one stroke at a time. Kayak trip is scheduled for Saturday Dec. 14. Call the Liberty Center at ext. 2010, to reserve your spot for this chance to get a nice tan for the holiday. Get ready to bring some cheer Head out to Cooper Field Dec. 12, for the Army vs. Navy Flag Football game and cheer on your Service! Games begin at 7 p.m., with the females taking the field first, follwed by the males. Life in Boots News 10 Trooper Focus13AND IN OUR PAGES Around the BayOther Stories4 6 14 Bay Wire Report157PV2 Ryan Curtis66th Military Police CompanyPO2 Jonathon ZocchiaPort Security Unit 301CORRECTIONS 2http://www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil/xwebsite/index.html 5 GTMO guard force undergoes realistic training to prepare them for the job ahead PAGE 8 Cover photo by Sgt. Cassandra Monroe

By Col. John Bogdan Commander, Joint Detention GroupTtrooper to rooper When a commander issues orders to his subordinate leaders and Soldiers, one of the essential components of his instructions must be his intent. Commanders Intent, as defined by FM 1.02 outlines the purpose, key tasks and endstate for any task assigned. The bottom line is that intent must provide a clear vision to subordinate leaders of what the battlefield must look like if and when all other plans go to hell ensure you accomplish these primary things, if nothing else. The first step is to provide clear, easily understood directions. Napoleon had a Corporal review his written orders if his corporal could understand the intent, then the orders were published. Rommel told his battalion commanders in the deserts of North Africa: in the absence of orders go out and find something and kill it! With well crafted and CLEAR intent, we empower our subordinates to take action, independent of direct oversight; to be creative and exploit the initiative when unforeseen events present opportunities. A leaders endorsement or support of his subordinates actions, regardless of their outcome, centers on the application of his intent and is paramount to a cohesive and dynamic team. Leaders who give overly detailed directions and constantly micro-manage their subordinates stifle creativity and stunt the development of our future leaders. Soldiers who know their superiors will support their decisions are empowered to act; they arent worried about the perceptions of their actions. They become bold and decisive leaders, able to direct sometimes unorthodox solutions in the face of uncertainty that most effectively accomplish the mission. While this is not to say that ends justify the means, it does recognize that each individuals skills, knowledge and expertise have something to contribute to the mission and to improving the entire organization. This type of empowerment is what turns good units into outstanding ones. Average units accomplish amazing things when leaders are empowered with clear intent and the support of their leaders. It was clear intent that allowed paratroopers, scattered all over Normandy, to assemble with Soldiers of different units, in some cases even different divisions, to drive on and seize key terrain and block critical avenues of approach leading to the eventual success of the D-Day invasions. It was the commanders clear intent, secure the COP, on COP Callahan, Baghdad, Iraq, that allowed Sgt. Whitley, a young MP team leader, to act. While preparing for mission, her squad was struck by overpowering rocket-assisted mortar fire, two of her vehicles were destroyed and several Soldiers injured. She quickly led troops to cover inside the main headquarters, organized her forces with other responding troops to establish security, and then went back out into the heavy fire, taking two other Soldiers with her, to locate and secure the remaining wounded troops. The enemy was unable to advance upon the compound, and no Soldiers were killed that day, due to her confidence in her ability to make decisions and her understanding of clearly defined commanders intent.4 http://www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil/xwebsite/index.html In 1990, President George H.W. Bush approved a joint resolution to designate November as National American Indian Heritage Month. Last month, the 525th Military Police Battalion honored the contributions made by Native Americans throughout history specifically those in the military. Native Americans have participated with distinction in United States military actions for more than 200 years. Their courage, determination, and fighting spirit were recognized by American military leaders as early as the 18th century. In 1778, Gen. George Washington said, I think they can be made of excellent use as scouts and light troops. The Department of Defense estimates that more than 12,000 American Indians served in the military in World War I. The 142nd Infantry, 36th Texas-Oklahoma National Guard Division, had at least 600 Oklahoma Natives from the Choctaw and Cherokee Tribes. The 142nd fought in France, and many of these Native American Soldiers were recognized. Four men received the Coix de Guerre, while others received the Church War Cross for gallantry. In World War II, Native Americans continued to serve proudly in the Pacific from 1942-1945. The Navajo code talkers served in all six Marine divisions, Marine Raider battalions and Marine parachute units. They transmitted messages by telephone and radio in their native language. It was a code the Japanese could not break and one that was crucial to American success during the war. Today, descendants of these Tribes still carry on their service within our ranks. They volunteer for service at a high rate Native Americans have the highest per capita record of service when compared to other ethnic groups. According to the Department of the Army, in 2012, there were 8,138 Native Americans serving. Their call to service has contributed to the distinctive cultural values from each Tribe. The warrior tradition is best exemplified by these qualities: strength, honor, pride, devotion and wisdom. Rites of passage including service in the military are very much respected. Over the course of the Armys 238-year history, Natives have served among our ranks valiantly and with distinction and honor. Their rich heritage and backgrounds make the U.S. Army more unique. We are proud of their lasting contributions as Soldiers, civilians, veterans and family members in this profession and all professions that benefit the nation and our Army. By 1st Sgt. Davin Butler First Sergeant, HHC 525th MP Bn.ommandCCorner

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Chaplains inspire single SoldiersNFews EED The arena was set, safety precautions in place, allegiances determined, and the inevitability of risk began to take its toll as Troopers assigned to Joint Task Force Guantanamo at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, prepared to engage in a battle of paintball during a Strong Bonds event for single Soldiers, Nov. 26. The two-day event was hosted by JTFGTMO chaplains and consisted of paintball, meals, several workshops, an evening yacht dinner cruise, and one night in a hotel for the 27 participants. Before attending the workshops, I viewed relationships as I saw them on TV and acted as such, said Army Pfc. Ernesto Camacho, military police assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 93rd Military Police Battalion, but now I know that you have to get yourself together, before helping everyone else. Initially I thought it was just going to be classes with the chaplains and food, but after experiencing the paintball, and yachting, along with the information that I learned about relationships, it turned out to be better than expected. The workshop featured topics from Dr. John Van Epps book, How to Avoid Falling in Love With a Jerk, which reinforces the ability to manage the different complexities of finding a significant other for the long term, along with self improvement for those seeking love. This event should happen more often, maybe quarterly, said Camacho. As glamorous as the activities seemed, the basic ideals of hard work, donation and volunteerism played a big part. Raising the money was a big challenge but with the 525th Military Police Battalion Family Readiness Group, the Chief of Chaplains fund, and other private donors, we were able to pull this off, said Army Capt. Brady Frederick, 525th MP BN chaplain. We wanted to give Soldiers practical tools to help with dating and marriage, while allowing them to have fun it was money well spent. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Scott Buster Armstrong, an air operations officer assigned to NAVSTA provided his yacht Finders Keepers. His vessel served as the Troopers dinner location and gave Service members another opportunity to increase personal relationship development. Its fantastic to share what my wife Tiana and I have, especially to Troopers who are so appreciative for the opportunity, he said. Wow is the most common feedback term. It also does not have to be a nice boat to have fun, just making the attempt and doing outreach is enough to get something started. The next event in the works for Frederick is to give married Soldiers, who are away from their spouses, the tools to help their marriages while separated. Story and photos by Spc. Lerone Simmons Staff Writer, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.mil Troopers assigned to Joint Task Force-Guantanamo enjoyed a sunset sail aboard Finders participants. The Wire December 65 Information Assurance Countermeasures Only visit safe sites Your government computer prevents some of this from safest choice is to only visit reputable sites that publish clear

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FRIDAYDOWNTOWN CAMP BULKELEYSATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAYat the Downtown and Camp Bulkeley LyceumsStay classy, GTMO! No ALCOHOL or TOBACCO at the Lyceums!Call the Movie Hotline at ext. 4880 or visit the MWR Facebook page for more information Courtesy Walt Disney Pictures Courtesy Summit Entertainment Courtesy Universal Pictures06 07 08 09 10 11 12No movies will be shown due to setup for the Holiday Concert No movies will be shown due to the Holiday Concert FrozenPG, 7 p.m.Escape Plan (LS)R, 7 p.m.The CounselorR, 7 p.m.Carrie (LS)R, 7 p.m.Enders GamePG13, 7 p.m.Enders GamePG13, 8 p.m.Carrie (LS)R, 10 p.m.Escape Plan(LS)R, 8 p.m.The CounselorR, 10 p.m.Hunger Games: Catching FirePG13, 8 p.m.FrozenPG, 8 p.m.About TimeR, 8 p.m.Lyceum closedNote: Concessions at Camp Bulkeley are also closed every night until further notice.Lyceum closedNote: Concessions at Camp Bulkeley are also closed every night until further notice.LS = Last ShowingTis the season for shallow and pedantic full-length, Disney feature films about the wondrously fanciful world of childhood exploration. Frozen brings young and frivolous Anna (Kristen Bell) and hardened mountain man Kristoff (Jonathan Groff) together to end the eternal winter that has settled on the kingdom. Together, with a group of sub-freezing, arctic creatures, these two must attempt to save the kingdom from its icy doom or risk death in the process. For what this movie was, it fit the bill of a loveconquers-all animated drama. Dusted throughout the films more serious, and at times thrilling, parts are little jokes from Olaf the snowman (Josh Gad). Shockingly, the most enjoyable part of Frozen wasnt what was seen but, rather, what was heard. The musical score in this movie was moving. If you can shut out the childish and derivative storyline, close your eyes and just listen, the auditory experience of Frozen can melt your heart. For making me feel like I wasnt part of a winter wonder weltschmertz, but still being a good bit of fun, I give Frozen three banana rats. Frozen will melt your heartHollywood gets the book rightThe science-fiction novel Enders Game has been embraced by readers for several decades. Im glad Hollywood waited until film technology could handle the imaginative world of Ender. Enders Game is about a future world, living in the shadow of a war with aliens, buggers. Mankind barely survived the war and children are bred for their brains and brawn in hopes of a hero; one who can defeat the buggers for good. Like any movie adapted from literature, there are changes. The most glaring change is the age of Andrew Ender Wiggins (Asa Butterfield). At the start of the book, Ender is six years old but even at the age of 16, he has the look, depth and skill to pull off the complicated character of Ender. I found the script to be the only thing lacking. The film could have benefitted from exploring Enders mind games and battle school exploits. This lacking could have been solved with a few simple montage sequences. In the end, the film hits all the necessary targetsacting, visual effects, and energy. For saving mankind from the possibility of a horrible movie adaptation, I give the film five banana rats. Review by Sgt. Katherine Forbes JTFPAO, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.milReview By Sgt. David Bolton Copy Editor, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.milAbout Time, starring Tim (Domhnall Gleeson) and Mary (Rachel McAdams), starts out as what seems like a playful movie about a guy whos down on his luck and has no success with women. That is, until he learns an old family secret. About Time managed to pull all of my heartstrings and was beautifully directed, in a way where you felt embarrassed, delighted, happy and sad along with Tim and the others. You felt as if you shared the same memories. The many characters of the film had you falling in love with them too; from Tims charming, care-free father, to his beloved Mary. Tims sisters problems became your problems as well. The moment you feel like this movie starts to drag on, youre surprised by a few twists and turns along this beautiful journey of love and family. Overall, I give this movie five banana rats. Review By Sgt. Cassandra Monroe Staff Writer, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.mil 6http://www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil/xwebsite/index.html

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One stroke at a time, Swimming across the bayStory and photos by Sgt. David Bolton Copy Editor, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.milIn the early morning hours of Nov. 30, 30 participants took to the shores of Leeward Point Beach for the pan-bay swim. From Leeward Point, the swimmers set a course for Girl Scout Beach, 1.7 miles away. Surrounded by five Morale, Welfare and Recreation pontoon boats and three times as many volunteers in kayaks with life preservers, the school of swimmers made their way steadily across the mouth of the bay. There arent many swim events so if youre a swimmer, its a great event, said Elena Granina, a logistician with base supply. Its once-in-a-lifetime; youve got to do it while youre in GTMO. Before any of the swimmers were allowed to set foot in the water, they were required to pass a 500m swim test to ensure participants were up to the task. Swimming such a vast, open body of water takes planning and careful consideration. Looking out over the bay it may seem easy for someone to make a B-line from one shore to another. But when waves, tides, weather, sea life and exhaustion are thrown into the mix, it is good to have a way of navigating through the deep, blue water. You have to steer and aim for landmarks so you dont go too far in one direction or the other, said Army Capt. Elizabeth Johnson, commander, 189th Military Police Company. Then try to get through the middle part where the seaweed and jellyfish are as quickly as possible. The middle is the place you dont want to be for very long. Jumping into the waves of the bay isnt something that should just be done for the fun of it. Before attempting any kind of MWR-sponsored endurance challenge, it is a good idea to train for the event you want to participate in; whether its a marathon, triathlon or a swim across Guantanamo Bay. After work I went swimming two times a week, said Army Pfc. Mark Zaborniak, a generator mechanic with the 189th MP Co. I think it was a good idea to do that 500m to weed out people that might not necessarily make it or overestimate their abilities. In just over an hour, all the competitors and participants who entered on Leeward came out on Girl Scout. Trophies were given to the male and female first-place finishers. Johnson took home a trophy with a time of 47 minutes, 40 seconds and Navy Cmdr. Jerry Berman, an anesthesiologist at Naval Station Hospital, won the mens trophy with a time of 47 minutes, 30 seconds. The Wire December 6 7

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Its good to have that type of experience, knowing how youre going to take it and how youre going to respond. is put a realistic spin on what could possibly happen.Sta Sgt. Michael Chesney, 189th Military Police Company 8http://www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil/xwebsite/index.html

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The Wire December 69 Loud bangs on metallic gates, mumbled whispers and shouting echoed through a long walkway containing old detention cells. I need more water! shouts one disdainful voice. Do you see how hot it is, cmon, more water? Another voice, this one laced with sarcasm, chimes in: Oh, youre new! Youre new here! Guards, protected by a splash-resistant face shields paced up and down the hallway. At each cell, they ignored the yelling, peered into the cells to check on the occupant. Each cell, painted sea foam green with a black stripe and a heavy gate, contained a metal block representing a bed, a water fountain and grounded toilet. A Soldier, stopped at a cell to check on the inhabitant and is suddenly caught off guard by a splash to the face, forcing him to leave the environment as other cell inhabitants cackle with laughter. Thankfully for the guard, the questionable liquid he was splashed with was only water, and the cell inhabitants, only fellow Soldiers playing the role of disgruntled detainees. The guards particpated in the training exercise in preparation for life on the block, where they will be faced with many challenges. The scenario is all too real for detention facility guards stationed here. The realistic training was facilitated by the Behavioral Science Consultation Team, a group that works with incoming Troopers who will have daily interactions with detainees held at the facilities. The new-to-the-island guards started with an extensive and informative slideshow detailing detainee interactions, and what to expect from their jobs. They learned how small actions could speak louder than words, and were reminded to incorporate their basic Army values when interacting with the detainees in the facilities. The later portion of the training put them in a true-to-life situation and prepared them for what they may face. There are a bunch of components we use as the BSCT, said Army Sgt. Christopher Egan, noncommissioned officer in charge of the training. We show them how to look at themselves, their values, how they interact with other individuals. Having good interpersonal communications skills can make your job a lot easier. This training was to give the new guards a taste of what it will be like and I think what they get the most out of is getting the experience in a safer environment, he continued. If they get confused or do not understand what is going on, its easier for them to react here. For Army 2nd Lt. Thelma Teal, the area officer in charge with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 525th Military Police Battalion, the training helped her grow as a leader by showing her how quickly situations requiring her involvement can arise. I have to be ready and I have to know the Standard Operating Procedures, she said. SOPs are very important here especially because theres certain ways to react to detainees. I have to know what actions to take once these incidents occur, and make sure that I choose decisions wisely and that I make them in a timely manner before any other issues arise. The purpose of the SOPs is to provide a safe and humane standard for these military policemen to follow when interacting with detainees. The SOPs also include standards for the guards to protect themselves from any harm. For Teal, safety is of upmost importance for her team members and the detainees. There are always procedures we can take to make it easier for them, she said. In the end we just have to follow them because its going to protect the Soldiers from anything the detainees try to do. For Army Staff Sgt. Michael Chesney, the most unforgettable part of the training was getting splashed. He said that after taking his eyes off the cell inhabitant for one second and getting splashed was a beneficial part of the learning process. Its good to have that type of experience on knowing how youre going to take it and how youre going to respond to it, said Chesney, military police with 189th Military Police Company. This put a realistic spin on what could possibly happen.

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10http://www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil/xwebsite/index.html lbife in oots

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The Wire December 611Distinguished tours Photo Editor, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.milWhen distinguished visitors, including congressional members and foreign dignitaries, visit Guantanamo Bay, the DV drivers of the Joint Visitors Bureau ensure the red carpet is rolled out and a good first impression is made. Army Sgt. Christian Hiner, a DV driver for the JVB with the Michigan National Guard 177th Military Police Brigade, said first impressions are paramount, and when it comes to a place like GTMO, its important to show that from the moment the plane door opens that it is a professional environment. First impressions are paramount in a place like GTMO which is constantly scrutinized, but Hiner and the other DV driver, Army Staff Sgt. Joel Shively, also with the 177th MP Bde., make sure the vehicles used to transport DVs around the station are pristine and in tip-top shape. We sweep and mop, shine the inside and tires with Armor All, clean the windows inside and out and wash the exterior which in itself can take two hours to do, Shively said. We spend quite a lot of time making sure these vehicles are ready. On a typical arrival day, Shively said he does any last minute cleaning and fuels up his bus. He stocks a cooler onboard with ice and bottled water for his future passengers, checks over his itinerary so he knows what the plan is because it can sometimes change. I will meet the DV party at Officers Landing once they cross over on the Coast Guard fast boats, greet them as they board the bus, and once they get settled we get started with the tour, Shively said. A typical tour includes a stop at Camp X-Ray and an occasional stop at the Tierra Kay housing area to show where some of the guard force lives, Shively said. Additionally, he said they will stop at the detention hospital at Camp Delta and almost always visit Camps V and VI where DVs will go inside and see a typical cell and learn about dayto-day operations. We may also go out to the Expeditionary Legal Complex and let them walk through the courtroom and get a tour of that area as well, he said. When the DVs are not being shuttled around, there can be a lot of downtime for the drivers of the JVB. Once they leave Leeward Ferry Landing, I wont see them again until I pick them up for their departure flight, Hiner said. I spend that time taking classes online to help me further progress in my military occupation specialty. The time to further his career is great, but Hiner said meeting people that he would otherwise have never had the chance to is the best part of the job, a sentiment echoed by Shively. Its neat to be able to meet these people, Shively said, recalling how much he enjoyed meeting Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. To Hiner, meeting retired Army Gen. George W. Casey Jr., and Marine Corps Gen. John Kelly, current commander of U.S. Southern Command, are his treasured memories. Shively said no DV visit would be able to run as smoothly if it were not for the hard work and attention to detail of the entire JVB. I drive the DVs around on the bus, but that wouldnt happen if the rest of the team didnt do their part as effectively and efficiently as they do, he said. Story and photos by Sgt. Darron Salzer

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Cooking club provides relaxing environment for retired Cuban residentsStory and photos by Sgt. Cassandra Monroe Staff Writer, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.milThe small kitchen at the Cuban Community Center was packed with volunteers from both U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay and those serving Joint Task Force Guantanamo. Several women were hunched over the sink together, cutting various vegetables and transferring them to a pot where hot chicken legs were boiling in a flavored stock. Some of the volunteers made phone calls, ensuring the guests of honor were arriving, while others prepared the dining setup. Holas were heard over the busy chit-chat throughout the house. Finally, the guests of honor, Cuban exiled residents, arrived and the party began. The Cuban residents are GTMOs past; Once daily commuters on base, after the Cuban Missle Crisis, they chose to live at the Naval Station for their retirement. The Cuban Cooking Club, a monthly event sponsored by the Cuban Community Assistance program, hosts luncheon, monthly, and a place for the Cubans to get together; ensuring a cohesive bond between the last remaining Cuban-nationals who live on base. Although the cooking club only happens once a month, they do get together weekly for exercise, entertainment and medical examinations. In the small, packed building, the joy and relaxing state of the guests was louder than the Spanish music playing in the background. Juanita Harris, CCA director said this was one of many events the Cubans organize. It is also an opportunity for Service members to volunteer. They come here and we prepare meals and everyone shares, said Harris. Cuban residents think its great having Service members come over to share. LoLeeta Lewis, a Cuban resident who has lived on base since 1964, was already in her home cooking when she got the call to come to the CCC. Lolita formerly worked for the public works department on base and commuted daily to work, crossing the gates every morning and evening. Cooking has always been something she just knew, something that was instilled in her. If I try, I can do it, she said. Its natural. Despite this being her first time at the club, she said her ability to mix well with others she doesnt know, and to adapt to new environments, motivated her to live on this base. I mix, I adjust, I make friends, I dont have to know you, she said. Im blessed. This is home, GTMO is my family. As the guests dispersed with full stomachs, the Cubans were left to relax among themselves, speaking in thick Spanish accents with smiles on their faces. Service members hold a citizen during a Cuban Cooking club offers a chance for the retired Cuban citizens residing at Guantanamo Bay to come together for food and friends The monthly event is also a chance for Service members to volunteer and get a chance to 12http://www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil/xwebsite/index.html

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Being in the Reserves allows for one to have a civilian, as well as a military, career which are usually two different fields. For Army 1st Lt. Bryan Chan, 194th Military Police Company, his Reserve status in the military ended up mirroring his civilian job. Chan has a very established civilian career as a prosecutor in southern California, 14 years to be exact, but decided to join the MP Corps because he admired their work ethic and noticed their job satisfaction when working with them. People always ask me why I didnt join the Judge Advocate General Corps since I am already an attorney and in law enforcement, Chan said. I always reply with two reasons: First, I wanted a different experience from my civilian life. Second, I wanted to become involved in the other side of law enforcement, where the rubber meets the road. The irony in Chans reasons wasnt lost here at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where Chan found his two worlds collide. Assigned as the officer in charge for internal security during military commissions, Chan spends more time in a courtroom than a typical MP officer would on deployment. I was actually excited when I learned about my assignment on this deployment, Chan said. It was high profile and in an environment I am already comfortable with. More importantly to Chan, the current hearings going on at GTMO deal with the alleged masterminds of Sept. 11, dubbed here as the /11 five. I joined in part because of 9/11 and my first mission and first command is now being a part of the after effects of that day, he said. As I prepared for this deployment, GTMO was becoming more and more in the spotlight and controversial; which got me even more anxious to get here and see what it was really all about. Chan said his colleagues at the District Attorneys Office have been nothing but supportive and proud since he joined. They initially thought I was crazy to join at such a late age but understood why I did it, Chan said. My immediate supervisor was especially pleased because he served in the Army during the Vietnam War and could relate. Chan said he has learned more about the structured lifestyle of the military, but isnt referring to orderly barracks or practicing customs and courtesies. Ive learned about time management, goal-oriented planning and maintaining a broad, professional network, he said. These tools Ive learned and practiced in the Army have been applied to my civilian job. California Courtroom to GTMO CommissionsStory and photo by Capt. Andi Hahn JTF GTMO PAO, thewire@jtfgtmo.southcom.mil The Wire December 613TFRooper ocus

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I want to hear from you! Did you try my recipe and loved it? Did you try my recipe and hated it? Well... thats too bad but email me anyways! If you have a recipe youd like for me to try, contact me! cassandra.l.monroe@ jtfgtmo.southcom.mil p.s. (one last thing)Who doesnt love cupcakes? Whos in the spirit for the holidays? I know I am! Here is a recipe for some seriously delicious pumpkin cupcakes. mouth cupcakes are moist but still maintain an airy texture. Theyre paired perfectly with cinnamon cream cheese icing. Since theyre batches! (Recipe adapted from www.thecakemerchant.com) For the cupcakes, preheat the tin with 12 paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of one teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, one teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon salt. If you want, dont be afraid to add a few dashes of allspice. In a bowl, (it helps if you have an electric mixer) beat one stick of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated white sugar until light and creamy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, scraping the sides of the bowl after each addition. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and beat to combine. With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients and 1 can of pumpkin puree in three additions, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, until the batter has just come together. Divide the batter evenly between the 12 liners (I used a measuring cup to do this) and bake for 1820 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. For the frosting, beat 8 ounces cream cheese, one stick of butter, a pinch of salt, and one teaspoon cinnamon until creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add 2 1/2 to 3 cups confectioners sugar. Beat until incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl when necessary. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla and continue beating until combined. Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. 14http://www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil/xwebsite/index.html PUMPKIN CUPCAKES WITH CINNAMON CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

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by Rizzo Chaplains ext. 2218 Its that time of the year. Be sure to plan head and get your packages and holiday cards in the mail so your family and friends will receive them in time. Free Christmas cards are available to you at the Camp America Post Oce and at the JTF Chaplains Oce.Mail /jointtaskforceguantanamo Facebook Army National Guard photo by Spc. Lerone Simmons/The WireGTMO life improvement The Wire December 615 LTife On he Bay